Aromatic Pathways to Transformation: Integrating Essential Oils with Guided Imagery

with Michelle Montgomery

Dive into the transformative practice of Guided Imagery, a multi-sensory visualization technique that harnesses the power of imagination and the five senses—smell, sight, touch, taste, and hearing—to inspire inner growth and behavioral change. Rooted in evidence-based practices, guided imagery engages the inner self to address challenges such as pain management, anxiety, insomnia, and performance in high-stakes scenarios like public speaking and sports. 

In this session, participants will embark on a virtual aromatic journey through California's diverse natural landscapes, from the chaparral, marshlands, meadows and oak forests. Experience how therapeutic essential oils can deepen the relaxation response and enhance sensory immersion, fostering profound emotional and mental shifts. 

Join us to discover practical techniques for incorporating guided imagery with essential oils into your holistic practice, equipping you to support clients navigating stress, addiction recovery, and life transitions. A list of required aromatic products will be provided beforehand to ensure full participation in this experiential workshop. 

Key Takeaways: 

• Learn how to assess whether guided imagery is safe and appropriate for a client or patient, including contraindications for individuals with mental illnesses such as schizophrenia, paranoia, dementia, disorientation or persons that cannot distinguish between imagined images and reality. 
• Discover the four essential elements of effective guiding. 
• Understand how to write a customized script tailored to a specific condition or goal. 
• Explore techniques for inducing relaxation to begin a guided imagery session. 
• Learn the best practices for closing a guided imagery session in a grounded and intentional manner. 
• Gain tools to evaluate the effectiveness of your guided imagery session and adjust for future practice. 

Let this immersive journey inspire new ways to help your clients transform their inner landscapes with confidence and care. 

More about Michelle:

Michelle D. Montgomery is a dedicated advocate for those navigating grief and loss, channeling her own experiences into impactful service. As a Certified Grief Educator trained by renowned Grief Expert David Kessler, Michelle combines her expertise in the grieving process with her certification as an Integrative Aromatherapist. She is the founder of Botanical Blends and Balance, where she integrates her knowledge to support individuals through their healing journeys. 

Michelle’s diverse background includes trauma-informed yoga (RYT 200) and an exploration of how the body stores trauma as studied under Bessel van der Kolk, MD, author of The Body Keeps the Score. Additionally, she holds a Guided Imagery Certification from the University of Minnesota. She is an active Board Member of Gloves for Grief, a 501(c)3  non-profit  based in Southern California which serves the grief community, offering therapeutic boxing, grief support groups and mental wellness (www.glovesforgrief.org).